It is probable that Pentagon may extend the closing date for bids on its air re-fuelling tanker designed for the U. S. Air Force. This was reported by the French news agency, AFP on Friday.

This may result owing to an expression of interest by Europe's EADS expressed in the multibillion-dollar contract. It is notable that EADS has shown interest in the aircraft despite the fact that the trans-Atlantic partnership has ended.

The Defense Department evinced that it welcomed the interest and an alteration in the deadline was possible. The deadline could be extended to May 10 for bids if required.

Geoff Morrell, the Pentagon Press Secretary said, "The Department has received notification from EADS North America indicating possible interest in competing for the Air Force's KC-X Tanker and we would welcome that".

Morell shared that Pentagon was open to proposals from all competent contractors for the tankers. This is in keeping with the defense department's commitment to carry out a just and open competition.

This is the U. S. Air Force's third attempt since 2001 to replace its nearly 50 year old fleet of KC-135 tankers.